What can I expect of my tuberous breasts once my implants are removed? (Photos)

In your before photograph, your breasts were widely separated and the nipples were pointing outward. The lollipop lift did nothing to increase your cleavage. Adding implants actually made the situation worse. At this time, I recommend explantation and a mini lift. Using a circumareola incision, the implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. At the same time, fat transfers can be performed. Implants are not lifetime devices. 8% fail within the first year and 30% fail within six years. Fat transfers are permanent and incorporated into the body.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Hi @hbarnett13, thank you for your question. My preference is to combine breast implant removal with immediate repositioning of the breast tissue to address the projection of the upper pole and medial areas using the BRALAN Technique (Breast Reconstruction Anatomical Lift Augmentation) as the results will be adequate and have minimal scarring in the shape of an L. Also, you would not have to worry if your breast was tuberous to begin with. Remember to undergo a complete capsulectomy. If you are considering breast lipoplasty, consultation with a plastic surgeon experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. Best of luck!

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), Member of the International Federation of Adipose Therapeutics and Science (IFATS), Member of the Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery (SCCP).

The smaller the implant and the shorter the amount of time it has been since placement, the greater the chance the breasts will return to their preoperative state. It is very difficult to predict breast size following explant b/c breast implants and weight fluctuations over time tend to thin tissues, cause a decrease in size, and create more droop.
Usually removing them and performing a lift at the same time makes the most sense as some patients clearly need a lift and only want to go through one surgery. If you are borderline, it is not unreasonable to remove the implants and then observe a waiting period of six months before the determination for breast lift is made. This will give your breasts time to bounce back and your PS time to determine what type of lift, if any, is needed.

Dear hbarnett13,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. You can remove implant and wait to see the final results. If you are not satisfied with the results after removal smaller implants or fat transfer can be an option. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs. For most patients with a tuberous breast appearance, the improved shape is provided by the structure of the implant and removal of said implant will restore much of the prior appearance, regardless of size of implant or duration of placement.

Good afternoon!
I think you will look very good post-explant with a donut mastopexy- I recommend the following technique- capsulectomy and explant, followed by a drain in each pocket for five days so that the pockets seal closed, followed by 12 weeks of a good tight compression bra. With this technique I have had very nice results! Then let your body heal, let the skin and soft tissues "shrink back down" and you will likely need no further surgery.

The changes you can expect in tuberous breasts after implant removal can vary depending on factors such as the duration of implant placement, the size of the implants, the elasticity of your skin, and your body's natural response to the changes. Here are some general considerations:1. Breast Shape and Size: Tuberous breasts are characterized by a constricted or narrow base, a higher-than-normal breast fold, and often, a pointy appearance. After implant removal, the breasts may return to their pre-implant size and shape. However, the exact changes will depend on the degree of tissue stretching caused by the implants.2. Skin Elasticity: The elasticity of your skin plays a significant role in how your breasts will look after implant removal. If the skin has been stretched significantly, it may not fully retract, leading to some degree of sagging or laxity.3. Nipple and Areola Changes: Tuberous breasts can also be associated with enlarged areolas and potentially herniated or puffy nipples. Changes in nipple and areola appearance may occur after implant removal, and the extent of these changes can vary.4. Potential Asymmetry: Tuberous breasts often exhibit asymmetry, and this may persist after implant removal. The degree of asymmetry can be influenced by various factors, including the initial asymmetry, the size of the implants, and individual healing responses.5. Consultation with a Plastic Surgeon: If you are considering implant removal and are concerned about the appearance of your breasts afterward, it is advisable to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They can assess your specific situation, discuss your goals, and provide guidance on potential outcomes and any additional procedures that may be beneficial, such as a breast lift or reshaping.6. Recovery Period: There will be a recovery period after implant removal during which your body adjusts to the changes. Swelling and bruising are common initially, and it may take some time for the final results to become apparent.It's important to have realistic expectations and to communicate openly with your plastic surgeon about your goals and concerns. They can provide recommendations based on your unique anatomy and preferences.

The implants have reshaped the base of your breast, so you will not look tuberous with the narrow base even with the removal. That is a permanent change to your breast base.

When the implants are removed your tissues will shrink back to a degree. As you have had some surgery to address the tuberous nature of the breasts, you may retain some of that improvement. If you do not wish to add implants you can consider a lift to help with the shape.

You would do well with implant removal and a breast lift (most probably a periareolar or around the nipple lift).
You may also consider doing a capsulectomy (removing the extra scar tissue on the tighter side and using smaller implants. Re-occurrence is not zero % but generally low.
Best wishes,
Dr. T